Based on some semblance of data...

most breeds have about a 35 pound difference in the age of dam adjustments for 2 vs. 3 year olds.

35 pounds of calf at $1.25 = $43.75

Typically 10-20% of heifers are lost on breedback as first calvers, with the tradeoff being that the ones that stay you don't get that one extra calf.  Let's call it 15%, and say 5% of the 2 year olds don't breed back at 3, thus the fallout is 10% on average on second calvers.

$1000 bred heifer * 1.10 = $100 premium

Breeding costs = $50 (to bull of choice and synched add $25)

Probably a $200-250 premium or so (increase with marketing, etc.) and you keep the first calf.

I know when bred heifers are at a premium you are usually better off buying young cows...

Or as much as you can get!!! :wink: